Worthing teenager saved from house fire

Smoke from the kitchen fire quickly spread through open doors in the house at 9am today (Monday, March 30).

But thanks to the early warning the 14-year-old escaped from the house in Warren Road, with just mild smoke inhalation.

The boy was asleep when the fire started, and discovered the cordless phone was not working due to the fire.

He managed to get out to a neighbour's house and called 999.

When two crews from Worthing Fire Station arrived at 9.05am they saw smoke pouring from the detached property.

A three-year-old Labradoodle dog called Dizzy was rescued.

Four fire-fighters wearing breathing apparatus went into the house to put out the flames.

Watch commander Darren Wickings said: "Once again, working smoke alarms saved this occupier from serious injury.

"He had an early warning and quickly made his way to safety.

"We also wish to remind people about the importance of keeping doors closed within a building, particularly when people are asleep, as it will limit smoke travel and allow a safe escape route.

"And as this case proves, its always useful to have your mobile phone handy as electrics can trip causing house phones to fail."

The fire is believed to have been caused by a faulty toaster and is being investigated.

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